Effectiveness of Library Consortium and the Challenges Encountered by Members of the Network of Calabarzon Educational Institution (NOCEI)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15802/unilib/2025_343232Keywords:
library consortium, NOCEI, effectiveness, challenges, collaborationAbstract
Objective. Library consortia are established to address financial and resource limitations of individual libraries by promoting collaboration and cooperation. In the Philippines, the Network of CALABARZON Educational Institutions (NOCEI) library consortium serves this purpose by enhancing access to resources and services among its members. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the NOCEI library consortium, identified challenges encountered by member institutions, and examined differences in effectiveness and challenges when grouped according to institutional profiles. Methods. Using a descriptive research design, thirty-eight (38) member institutions participated through a survey questionnaire. Results. Results revealed that half of the respondents were from Batangas, most had been members for six years or more, and they regularly participated in consortium activities. The NOCEI library consortium was rated highly effective with an average weighted mean of 3.39. The challenges encountered by NOCEI members were generally rated as “agree”, indicating that respondents acknowledged the presence of these issues. The most common challenge identified was the lack of coordination and communication among libraries. Statistical tests showed no significant differences in effectiveness and challenges when grouped by location, duration of membership, or frequency of participation. Conclusions. The findings suggest that while NOCEI is successful in providing wide access to information, strengthening communication and coordination mechanisms is essential for improving its overall impact.
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